Upon hearing about some unthinkable violence somewhere in the world, the first thing I do when I get to the church on Sunday morning is pencil another intention into the prayers of the faithful. In some small way, it feels like a solemn duty.

As a priest, ignoring my own emotions and how they may interact with the joys and pains of another is not an option.

I would not want to replace the reverence of the Mass with the endorphin-fueled exhilaration of a contra dance. But I do want us to find ways to extend an enthusiastic welcome to all who walk through our doors.

After a decade away from weekly Catholic worship, I realize that Roman Catholicism offers me the opportunity to see the world through the eyes of a poet.

Of course, the train ride was the highlight of his day. But I am hopeful he learned what it means to welcome the stranger.

Like Mary of Magdala, women who gave homilies had experienced a deep call and felt commissioned to share the good news.